Your Federal Employee Rights Amid Recent Executive Actions

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I'm Attorney Justin Schnitzer. Our commitment is to represent federal employees in cases of employment violations just as we would want to be represented, all with the aim of achieving decisive victories.

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Failure to Follow Instructions Charge for Federal Employees

Federal employees are expected to adhere to high standards of performance and conduct as outlined in agency policies and federal regulations, ensuring they serve the public effectively. One common issue that can arise in federal workplaces is the failure to follow instructions. This article explores what constitutes a failure to follow instructions, its potential consequences, and how federal employees can respond to such allegations. Federal workplaces typically have various types of instructions that employees are expected to follow: Failure to follow …

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What is a Reduction in Force in the Federal Government and What To Do

Before we dive into what you can do in the unlikely event of a Reduction in Force (RIF), let’s define it. When a federal agency chooses to abolish one or more employment positions, this is what is known as a Reduction In Force (RIF) in the federal government. Once an RIF has begun to take place, the agency in question is required to follow strict OPM Guidelines. A federal employee who is affected by a Reduction in Force will also have …

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Can You Be Fired for Using CBD as a Federal Employee?

In the 2018 Farm Bill, hemp production and the natural non-psychoactive compound cannabidiol (CBD) were made federally legal. This has allowed farmers to grow cannabis plants for hemp (rope and fabric) as well as other products made with the same crop. Federally legal cannabis products can contain any amount of CBD but must contain less than 0.3% THC by dry weight. THC is also a natural compound found in cannabis plants, and low-THC strains must be cultivated to meet this …

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What are the Douglas Factors?

Federal employment law is a distinct area requiring a nuanced understanding of regulations and procedures. As a government worker, certain rights are afforded you when your agency proposes disciplinary action against you. Among the elements you must understand are the Douglas Factors, a set of criteria your agency must follow before taking adverse action against you. Ultimately, you want to demonstrate that you don’t deserve punishment or that the proposed penalty is excessive by responding and contesting the proposed discipline. …

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The Proposed Removal Process for Federal Employees

Federal employees facing potential termination from their positions must navigate a complex process known as proposed removal from federal service. This procedure is designed to protect the rights of government workers while allowing agencies to address serious misconduct or performance issues. Understanding the steps involved and your rights as an employee is crucial if you find yourself in this situation. What is a proposed removal from federal service? A proposed removal is the formal process by which a federal agency …

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As a Federal Employee Can You Sue Your Employer?

Working as a federal employee provides many benefits, such as job security, competitive salaries, and access to various employee protections. However, like any other job, disputes and conflicts can arise between federal employees and their employers. In such a case, you may wonder, can a federal employee sue their employer? At The Law Office of Justin Schnitzer, we understand that navigating the complexities of federal employment law can be challenging. As an experienced federal employment law firm, we assist federal employees in protecting …

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Lack of Candor Definition, Examples, and Federal Employee Rights

Federal employees have an important role to play in the operation of our government. Thanks to their dedication, all the government services we take for granted keep running effectively. As such, public officials deserve protection from baseless or false accusations. To address misconduct by civil servants, government agencies weigh various disciplinary measures. They may contend that the targeted employee is guilty of falsification or turn to a vague charge: that the employee’s actions exhibited a “lack of candor.” Such an allegation …

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Federal Employee Termination Laws: A Complete Legal Guide 2024

Federal employee termination laws are in place to protect the rights of civil servants while also allowing the government to manage its workforce efficiently. As with any employer, the federal government can fire employees for subpar performance, company policy infractions, or disciplinary issues. However, special rules apply due to the unique nature of government work. Because federal employees are not private sector workers, they’re afforded protection against arbitrary or politically-motivated firings—their jobs allow them to carry out public business without …

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What Conditions Qualify for Federal Disability Retirement

Are you a federal employee wondering if your condition qualifies for Federal Disability Retirement? Reach out to our experienced Federal Disability Retirement lawyers at Justin Schnitzer. We can provide the guidance and support you need to navigate this complex process. Call us at 202-964-4878 for detailed legal assistance tailored to your specific situation. Federal disability retirement is a special dispensation for federal workers who become unable to work during their tenure. It is a form of early retirement based on …

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Conduct Unbecoming Charges for Federal Employees

Federal employees uphold a high standard of professional behavior. The rules are clear cut and reputation is important. Therefore, a false accusation of conduct unbecoming a federal employee can be devastating. This non-specific charge can place a black mark on your spotless career, which is why it is important to immediately assess the situation and prepare a legal defense. Conduct Unbecoming Charges for Federal Employees Federal agencies must charge an employee with misconduct in order to take adverse action. There …

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